HUNDREDS of people had the chance to find out more about the work of the emergency services – and try their kit on for size – at this year’s Emergency Services Fun Day in Page Park.
The event, now in its third year, aims to build trust and encourage engagement between the police, fire and ambulance services and the community – and organisers at the Avon & Somerset Police Outreach Team said it was a big success.
Visitors had a chance to sit in the driving seat of a police patrol car, go inside a speed van and sit on a motorbike, all of which had queues throughout the day.
People could also try on police helmets and caps, protective vests and find out more information about the work of the emergency services at information stalls.
An Avon Fire & Rescue Service fire engine also visited and drew crowds but had to leave to answer an emergency call – a reminder to visitors of the demands of the job.
Police horses and drones which appeared last year also had to be diverted, to help police a protest.
Abdulkadir Sheikhusein of the police outreach team, who co-ordinated the event with colleague Paul Walker, said: “From the moment we started at 11am we were busy, with a steady stream of visitors.
“As well as the speed van, motorbike, and car, our engagement tables were also consistently busy with lots of meaningful interactions.
“Our colleagues from Great Western Air Ambulance had a fantastic turnout too, speaking with many attendees and sharing valuable insights.”
There were also stalls and rides, with people having their first chance to buy next year’s Friends of Page Park calendar, which is raising money towards new play equipment.
Abdulkadir said a “huge part” of the event’s success had been thanks to the Friends’ support, along with South Gloucestershire Council and the Staple Hill Chamber of Trade.
He said: “I think the value of holding this kind of event is clear. It fosters community engagement, builds trust, and creates opportunities for positive interactions between the public and emergency services.
“It’s something we’d love to continue building on.”
Friends of Page Park vice-chair Steph Purser said the group had raised more than £1,000 on the day towards park projects from a sale of donated plants and a lucky dip, with more than 50 calendars also sold.
Steph said: “It was a fantastic day. When the weather’s good and there’s lots of visitors that’s what it’s all about – bringing people together.”